Pioneer Works is a nonprofit arts and science center in a former red-brick factory at 159 Pioneer St in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Founded by artist Dustin Yellin in 2012, it brings exhibitions, music, performances and educational programs into a three-level industrial space. Inside, look for changing installations and work that crosses art, science and technology; the large windows, high ceilings and historic brickwork give the galleries a distinctive setting. Some events spill into the outdoor garden, where a bar and fire pit have been part of the concert scene.
From ironworks to arts center
The building began as an industrial site, home to Pioneer Iron Works, a machinery manufacturer that also produced railroad tracks. The factory dates to 1866. Its later life as an arts center began in 2012, when artist Dustin Yellin founded Pioneer Works as a nonprofit organization.
The former factory’s scale remains central to a visit. The center occupies three levels, with tall ceilings, brick walls and broad windows that bring daylight into the interior. Rather than replacing the industrial character, the galleries and performance spaces work within it. The result is a setting that can accommodate large installations as well as music and other live events.
Art, science and technology
Pioneer Works builds its program around exchange between creative fields. Exhibitions may bring together visual art, technology and scientific ideas, while its broader activities include residencies, lectures, classes, publications and performances. The program changes, so the work on view depends on when you visit.
The center has also housed facilities for making and experimentation, including a technology lab with 3D printing, a virtual environment lab for VR and AR, a recording studio, a media lab, a darkroom and a ceramics studio. These spaces support work beyond the finished gallery display. A bookshop, press and gardens add other parts to the center’s creative and public life.
Exhibitions and events
A gallery visit is one way to experience Pioneer Works, but the calendar can also include concerts, films, book fairs, talks and workshops. Live programs range from music performances to interdisciplinary work, and the large interior gives performers room to use the building’s height and stage areas. Some events use the outdoor space as well.
Check the current program before setting out, especially if you have a particular exhibition or performance in mind. Gallery visits and ticketed events are not the same kind of visit: the gallery has been described as free to enter, while concerts and other events may require tickets. Confirm current access and ticket details on the center’s website.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Pioneer Works?
It is at 159 Pioneer St in Red Hook, Brooklyn, New York City.
What is Pioneer Works?
It is a nonprofit cultural center founded by artist Dustin Yellin in 2012. Its program brings together art, science, technology, education and live events.
Is admission to Pioneer Works free?
The gallery space has been listed as free to enter. Concerts and other events may require tickets, so check the current details before visiting.
What can you see at Pioneer Works?
The center presents changing exhibitions and installations, along with performances and educational programs. Its former factory building also has gardens and creative workspaces.
